SPRING FEVER: The Wait is Over

The gorgeous weather in the metro Thursday had many kids, and their parents, running outdoors. It also served as reminder for some people of what’s just around the corner.

“It’s exciting. When we see the grounds crew out there, stadium ops putting up the signs, we know that baseball is right around the corner. The weather hasn’t been that great this year but that probably works to our advantage. People want to get outside as soon as the weather starts to turn, and hopefully they’ll want to come to an Iowa Cubs game,” said Blake Havard, the Director of Marketing for Principal Park.

There’s still quite a bit to be done before the gates can open to fans, including wiping down all 11,000 seats and hanging signs. But officials have no doubt they’ll be ready for baseball come opening day on April 12th new additions and all. The clubhouses have been completely renovated- the space is doubled making it more comparable to a major league locker room.

Another new sight for fans is the “Register Media Veranda” The extra patio space has park officials planning for live music and drink specials this season.

While Principal Park officials hope for big crowds on opening day, Raccoon River Park is already seeing the crowds.

“We’ve been waiting for it. In the summer we come down here a couple times a week, but haven`t been able to do much with the cold weather,” said Aaron Fletcher Boggs, who was with his son at the park.

“I’m done with snow! I hope it’s this way for the rest of April on into May!” said Jenny Main from West Des Moines.